Banff National Park is home to some of the most beautiful mountain lakes. There are fabulous lakes throughout the whole region, starting in the town of Banff and continuing northward passed Lake Louise and the world-famous Icefields Parkway. From the Parkway, you have your pick of great lakes along the 140-mile road, some close to the road while others require a hike. Each one of these lakes could easily be your favorite one. One of the most visited lakes is Bow Lake, about 30 minutes north of Lake Louise. This lake is a magnet for photographers, visitors and tour buses.
I have been to Bow Lake countless times over the 25 plus years or so and have seen it in all kind of weather from rain to sleet to hail to snow. I have seen it in snowstorms, howling winds and sunny days. I have seen its surface covered with ice, with small white caps and as smooth as glass. All of this proves to me that the old saying is true - “Mountains make their own weather”. That explains why when you visit Bow Lake that clouds and mountains are almost always present together.